You Are Not A Tulip In a Pot

You Are Not a Tulip in a Pot is a lyrical picture book for families learning to embrace their children's individuality. Written by singer-songwriter and author Nancy Manet, this story gently challenges the belief that children must be tidy, quiet, or "just like everyone else" to be loved or accepted.

Told from an adult's (parent's) point of view, each spread contrasts a societal expectation with a joyful reality, inviting caregivers to celebrate their children's free-spirited nature. Readers progress from simple metaphors, such as "a box of crayons," to "bold finger paints," culminating in the empowering truth: "You, my child, are a field of wildflowers."

Michelle Buvala's vivid illustrations, which combine watercolor and cut-paper collage, create movement and emotion that echo the book's message of beauty in freedom and diversity.

This is a perfect read-aloud for parents, counselors, educators, and advocates for inclusive parenting.

Companion title: My Expansion by Nancy Manet.

Ideal for children aged 4-10 and their caregivers of all kinds.

Nancy Manet is an orchestrated rock pianist, vocalist, and songwriter. This is her second children's book. Her now adult children had a profound impact on her previously rigid, religious, and conservative worldview. Through honest and sincere conversations with them, Nancy began to question her beliefs, many of which were ingrained from her own childhood. These exchanges inspired Nancy to expand and grow as a parent, ultimately embracing her children exactly as they are. Nancy is a cheerleader for those who break the mold of rigid societal norms. She is an ally.

Michelle Buvala is a visual artist and illustrator living in Arizona. She has illustrated a number of published books for children and families. Michelle's creative practice centers around watercolor paintings, pen and ink drawings, linocut prints, and mixed-media works. Her specialty is watercolor cut-paper collage, which brings layered movement and emotion to every page she touches.